Name: Strawberry Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 large Eggs; 160 g Dark Chocolate; 120 g Butter; 100 g Sugar; 100 g Flour; 20 g Cocoa Powder; a pinch Salt; 200 g Cream Cheese; 1 Egg; 1 tbsp Flour; 2 tbsps Sugar; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 200 g Fresh Strawberries

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The moment I first tasted Strawberry Brownies, I knew I had stumbled upon something magical. The rich, fudgy texture of the brownie, paired with the tart sweetness of fresh strawberries, creates a dessert that’s not only indulgent but also a little bit nostalgic. I remember making these with my grandmother during strawberry season, her laughter mixing with the scent of melted chocolate wafting through the kitchen. Every summer, we’d head to the local farm, picking the juiciest strawberries, knowing they’d soon be the crown jewel atop our brownies. It’s a simple recipe filled with rich chocolate flavors and creamy cheesecake that always brings a smile. Whenever I’m in need of a sweet pick-me-up, I whip up a batch, reliving those warm memories. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these brownies will charm your taste buds and evoke happy memories.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
280 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
16 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk

Why You Need This Strawberry Brownies

Deliciously Unique Flavor Combination

What sets Strawberry Brownies apart is the unexpected pairing of strawberries with decadent chocolate brownies. The juicy strawberries burst with flavor, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate, ensuring every bite is an adventure.

Easy to Make

Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and forgiving. The simple steps allow you to whip up a batch in no time, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or a cozy night in.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These brownies are incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a sunny spring picnic, a summer barbecue, or a cozy winter dessert, Strawberry Brownies fit right in. They also make for a lovely gift, especially when packaged beautifully.

Impressive Presentation

The visual appeal of these brownies, with their vibrant strawberries peeking through the creamy layer, means they can easily take center stage at any dessert table. Their beauty is matched only by their taste!

Comforting and Indulgent

On a rainy day or during cozy evenings, sinking your teeth into these rich brownies topped with strawberries feels like a warm hug. It’s the kind of comforting dessert that makes you feel right at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Strawberry Brownies

When creating Strawberry Brownies, each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting that perfect dessert. The blend of chocolate and strawberries is the star, while the cream cheese adds a delightful creaminess. All these elements come together in a symphony of flavors that can’t be resisted.

3 large eggs: Essential for binding and adding richness to your brownies.
160 g dark chocolate: The key ingredient that brings deep, rich flavors.
120 g butter: Adds moisture and a delightful mouthfeel.
100 g sugar: Sweetens the brownies without overpowering the chocolate flavor.
100 g flour: Provides structure and stability to the brownies.
20 g cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor.
a pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
200 g cream cheese: Creates a luscious topping that complements the brownies perfectly.
1 egg: Used in the cream cheese layer for a smooth consistency.
1 tbsp flour: Helps thicken the cream cheese layer.
2 tbsp sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and flavor.
200 g fresh strawberries: The highlight of the recipe, bringing freshness and color.

How to Prepare Strawberry Brownies

Preparing Strawberry Brownies is a surprisingly enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering scents. Follow these simple steps to bring this delightful dessert to life. Let’s dive into the baking adventure!

Begin by lining a 20/20 cm (8×8 inches) baking tray with parchment paper. This will prevent the brownies from sticking and make them easy to remove once they’re baked.
Preheat your oven to 180 °C (356 °F) to ensure it’s hot enough to bake your brownies evenly.
In a thick-bottomed saucepan, melt 120 g butter over low heat. When it’s almost melted, add 160 g dark chocolate cut into pieces along with 100 g sugar. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous, then turn off the heat.
Next, add the 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air, leading to a lighter texture.
In a separate bowl, combine 100 g flour and 20 g cocoa powder. Gradually fold this into the chocolate mixture, being careful not to overmix.
Whisk the remaining 3 egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a nice meringue. Gently fold the meringue into the chocolate mixture using upward motions to keep it airy.
Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking tray, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
In a separate bowl, mix 200 g cream cheese, 1 egg, 1 tbsp flour, and 2 tbsp sugar until it’s uniform. Add 1 tsp vanilla extract and mix well.
Dollop the cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie base. Use a knife to gently swirl it into the brownie batter, creating a beautiful design.
Wash the 200 g fresh strawberries and remove their leaves. Carefully place them on top of the cream cheese layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Your brownies should be set on top but still slightly soft inside. Once done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 2 hours.
Finally, slice the brownies and serve them as they are or with a scoop of ice cream for that extra indulgence.

Things Worth Knowing

Be patient while cooling: Allowing the brownies to cool completely before slicing helps them set properly, resulting in cleaner cuts.
Use quality chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor and better texture.
Experiment with other fruits: Feel free to switch out strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a twist!
Consider adding nuts: Chopped nuts can add a delightful crunch and contrasting texture to the brownies.

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful hints to ensure your Strawberry Brownies come out perfectly every time:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these brownies! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They can last up to two months in the freezer.
Pairing: These brownies go exceptionally well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful treat.
Serving warm: Consider serving them warm, as the chocolate will be gooey and paired with ice cream, it’s simply divine!
Variations: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving for an extra touch.

Perfect Matches for Strawberry Brownies

When it comes to serving Strawberry Brownies, the key is to complement their rich flavor and texture with the right accompaniments. Here are some ideal pairings:

Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the chocolatey richness and adds a delightful temperature contrast.
Fresh strawberries: Serve additional fresh strawberries on the side to enhance the fruity notes of the brownies.
Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream can elevate the presentation and add a light, airy component to each bite.
Make it festive: If hosting a gathering, consider decorating your serving plate with mint leaves or edible flowers for a touch of elegance.
Serve with coffee: These brownies pair wonderfully with a nice cup of coffee or espresso, making for a great afternoon treat.
Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or even a cozy movie night at home!

FAQ

Strawberry Brownies combine the rich flavor of chocolate with the freshness of strawberries, creating a dessert that’s both indulgent and refreshing. The creamy cheesecake layer adds an extra dimension, making every bite a delightful experience. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to formal celebrations.

While fresh strawberries are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the brownie texture. Fresh strawberries will always yield the best results, but frozen can work in a pinch!

Store your Strawberry Brownies in an airtight container. They can last up to three days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions, which will last up to two months.

Absolutely! The recipe is quite versatile. You can easily substitute the strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or even cherries. Just keep in mind that different fruits may alter the overall flavor and sweetness of the brownies, so you might want to adjust the sugar accordingly.

Conclusion

Strawberry Brownies are a delightful marriage of rich chocolate brownie and fresh strawberries, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and try making this scrumptious treat. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, and each bite is sure to bring a smile!